ADVERTISEMENT
**9 Things You Should Never Plug into a Power Strip**
Power strips are a convenient way to extend your outlets and power multiple devices at once, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. While they can help you manage your electronic devices, there are some appliances and electronics that should *never* be plugged into a power strip. Overloading a power strip or plugging in devices that draw too much power can lead to overheating, damage to your equipment, or even fires.
Here’s a list of **9 things you should never plug into a power strip**, and why it’s important to avoid doing so.
### 1. **Space Heaters**
**Why Not:** Space heaters are one of the biggest offenders when it comes to overloading power strips. They draw a significant amount of power and require their own dedicated circuit. Plugging them into a power strip can cause it to overheat, which could lead to a fire hazard.
**What to Do Instead:** Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. This ensures they get the power they need and reduces the risk of overheating or electrical malfunction.
### 2. **Microwaves**
**Why Not:** Like space heaters, microwaves are high-powered appliances that consume a large amount of electricity when in use. Power strips are not designed to handle such a heavy load, and plugging a microwave into one could result in overheating or electrical fires.
**What to Do Instead:** Always plug microwaves directly into a wall outlet, ideally one that is on a separate circuit to ensure safe operation.
### 3. **Refrigerators or Freezers**
**Why Not:** Refrigerators and freezers continuously draw power, and their compressors require a steady supply of electricity. Plugging them into a power strip can cause the strip to fail, leading to potential damage to the appliance or even a fire.
**What to Do Instead:** Directly connect refrigerators and freezers to a dedicated wall outlet. These appliances should always have their own power source to avoid issues.
### 4. **Air Conditioners**
**Why Not:** Air conditioners, especially window units, consume a significant amount of power and require a direct connection to a wall outlet. Power strips cannot handle the surge of power needed to start the motor, and plugging an air conditioner into one could cause the strip to overheat and even catch fire.
**What to Do Instead:** Plug air conditioners into a de
